To get a HAZMAT endorsement, you must complete an
application from TSA and
submit your fingerprints

To renew your HAZMAT endorsement, you must be fingerprinted
at least 45 days before your license expires

Drivers who do not intend to transport hazardous materials do not need this endorsement

The USA Patriot Act requires background checks for all commercial drivers who apply for, renew or transfer a HAZMAT endorsement

Drivers who surrender an endorsement will not be subject to a background check. TSA developed this plan to protect against the threat posed by terrorists transporting HAZMAT

TSA will notify New Jersey of the results of the background checks and New Jersey will either issue or deny a HAZMAT endorsement based on that information

A driver must be a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident to hold a HAZMAT endorsement

Those receiving a HAZMAT endorsement in New Jersey must also comply with MVC's 6 point ID requirements

Frequently asked questions about HAZMAT

What is considered hazardous material (HAZMAT)?Hazardous materials include:

Gasoline

Explosive cartridges

Radioactive and infectious substances

Propane

Chlorine

Acids

What if I am denied a HAZMAT endorsement?
You may appeal on the grounds of mistaken identity or other information, such as a reversed conviction

You may also apply for a waiver in cases where you:

Acknowledge conviction or were found not guilty by reason of insanity of a disqualifying criminal offense

Acknowledge being adjudicated mentally incompetent

Were involuntarily committed to a mental institution

TSA must respond to an appeal or waiver application within 30 days of receipt. At the end of that period, if no appeal or waiver is granted, TSA will contact you and notify the state that you remain disqualified.

If a waiver is granted, TSA will contact you and notify the state that the endorsement will be issued.

How long is my HAZMAT endorsement valid?
In New Jersey, the endorsement is valid for four years.

What are the costs associated with obtaining a background check for Hazmat Endorsement with TSA?
It will cost $86.50 for the entire process (includes a $14.50 FBI database fee, a $38 vendor fee and a $34 TSA fee).

What are the reasons I will be denied a HAZMAT endorsement?
A driver is disqualified if he or she was convicted* or found not guilty by reason of insanity within the previous seven years, was released from prison within the previous five years, or is wanted or under indictment for any of the following crimes:

Assault

Kidnapping or hostage taking

Arson

Rape or aggravated sexual abuse

Extortion

Robbery

Bribery

Smuggling

Immigration violations

RICO (Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization Act) violations

Distribution of, intent to distribute or importation of a controlled substance

Improper transportation of a hazardous material (minor roadside or placard infractions are not automatic disqualifiers)

Conspiracy or attempt to commit any of these offenses

What is the HAZMAT background check?
In addition to running your fingerprints through various FBI, Interpol, and terrorist databases to determine if you should be disqualified, various mental health and immigration checks are also performed.

How do I submit my fingerprints?
You must submit your fingerprints no less than 45 days before your current CDL expiration. Contact TSA’s contracted fingerprint vendor Integrated Biometric Technology LLC (IBT) at (877) 429-7746. You will pay your fingerprinting fees directly to IBT.

NOTE: Act as early as possible to meet these new guidelines. Although you have been given a 90-day notice, the HAZMAT endorsement should be completed no less than 45 days from your current expiration.